Eleanor Parker Dies, 'Sound of Music' Actress Mourned
Eleanor Parker, who appeared in 1965's "The Sound of Music," died on Monday at age 91.
The Oscar-nominated actress was known as the "woman of a thousand faces" because of her ability to portray a range of characters. The nickname became the title of her biography by Doug McClelland.
A family friend of Parker's, Richard Gale, confirmed that the actress died on Monday morning after suffering from complications due to pneumonia.
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"She passed away peacefully surrounded by her children at a medical facility near her home in Palm Springs," Gale added, according to the BBC.
Parker was nominated for Oscars in 1950, 1951 and 1955 with films "Caged," "Detective Story" and Interrupted Melody," respectively, but after 1960, the actress' career slowed down.
Parker's best known role was that of Baroness Elsa Schraeder in "The Sound of Music" alongside Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer in 1965.
Although she portrayed a scheming quasi-villain in the Oscar-winning musical, Plummer assured fans that Parker was actually a wonderful person in real life in a statement released following her death this week.
"Eleanor Parker was and is one of the most beautiful ladies I have ever known," said Plummer, who is now 83-years-old. "Both as a person and as a beauty. I hardly believe the sad news for I was sure she was enchanted and would live forever."
Thousands of fans are also mourning Parker's death on Twitter following her death this week.
"Sad about the death of Eleanor Parker," Wrote Mickey. "A legendary movie star. My movie club and I worship and adore Eleanor! She always delivered!"
Valentina added, "Eleanor Parker, you were the one with the vivacious smile, big heart and even bigger talent. May you rest in peace."
Parker leaves behind two daughters and two sons.
The actress' death comes just days after a televised live remake of "The Sound of Music" hit the air starring Carrie Underwood and "True Blood" actor Stephen Moyer. The three-hour event was watched by millions but garnered largely negative reviews.
